Animation
Definition
Animation plays a vital role in user experience (UX) design by providing visual cues that guide users and enhance the overall interaction with digital products. It can range from subtle transitions to complex motion graphics, enabling designers to communicate information more effectively.
Animations can help in creating a sense of continuity, making interfaces feel more cohesive and less jarring. They can also draw attention to important elements, provide feedback on user actions, and create a more engaging experience that keeps users involved.
Key concepts related to animation in UX include timing, easing, and context. Timing refers to the duration of animation, while easing defines how the motion progresses over time. Context involves understanding when and where to use animations to enhance usability rather than detract from it.
Expanded Definition
The history of animation in user interfaces dates back to the early days of computing when simple animations were used to indicate loading processes or transitions between states. As technology has advanced, so has the complexity and capability of animations. Today, animations are integral to creating immersive experiences across various digital platforms.
Moreover, animations are not just for aesthetics; they serve functional purposes by providing feedback, improving navigation, and even guiding users through complex workflows. Designers must balance creativity with usability to ensure that animations enhance rather than hinder the user experience.
Key Activities
Creating motion design specifications for animations.
Testing animations with users to gather feedback on usability.
Implementing animations using design tools and front-end frameworks.
Collaborating with developers to ensure animations function as intended.
Analyzing user interaction data to measure the effectiveness of animations.
Benefits
Enhances user engagement by making interfaces more dynamic.
Provides visual feedback, improving interaction clarity.
Guides users through tasks, reducing cognitive load.
Creates a more enjoyable and memorable experience.
Helps in brand storytelling and establishing emotional connections.
Example
For instance, a mobile banking app might use animations to illustrate the transfer of funds from one account to another. As the user initiates the transfer, an animation could visually represent the funds moving, providing immediate feedback and reassurance that the action is being processed. This not only enhances the user experience but also builds trust in the app's functionality.
Use Cases
Onboarding processes where animations guide new users through features.
E-commerce websites using animations to provide feedback on cart additions.
Mobile applications that utilize animations to transition between screens smoothly.
Data visualization tools employing animations to highlight changes over time.
Games and interactive media where animations enhance storytelling and engagement.
Challenges & Limitations
Excessive or poorly designed animations can lead to user distraction.
Animations may not perform well on all devices, particularly older hardware.
Accessibility concerns for users with motion sensitivity or disabilities.
Increased development time and resources needed for implementation.
Tools & Methods
Adobe After Effects for creating complex animations.
Framer and Principle for prototyping animations.
CSS animations and transitions for web development.
JavaScript libraries like GreenSock (GSAP) for advanced animations.
Sketch and Figma for designing animated prototypes.
How to Cite "Animation" - APA, MLA, and Chicago Citation Formats
UX Glossary. (2025, February 12, 2026). Animation. UX Glossary. https://www.uxglossary.com/glossary/animation
Note: Access date is automatically set to today. Update if needed when using the citation.